Leverett Bradley: A Soldier-Boy’s Letters (1st Massachusetts Heavy Artillery.)

Oct. 28th. Moved back to our old camp in the rear.

Oct. 27th. [Battle of Boydton Plank Rd.] Moved early, began skirmishing in forenoon; drove Rebs 4 miles and got a position at 4 o’clk. Got a severe shelling and had a small fight, retreating after dark; pickets gobbled, severe attack, loss of life fearful.

Oct. 26th. At two P.M. moved to the “yellow house.”

Oct. 25th. Waiting orders; cold nights.

Oct. 24th. Moved about 11 P.M. to the rear and closed, en masse.

Oct. 6th. Went in to our old camp at Fort Hayes.

Oct. 2nd. Moved to left early and supported the skirmishing line. The records of the day I shall not chronicle, but I shall never forget them. Moved back at night for fear we should get flanked.

[It is told in the regiment’s history what he declined to tell: “The brigade was ordered to make a demonstration on the enemy’s works, to ascertain their strength and, if possible, carry them. As we advanced the enemy opened a battery that was masked in the angle of his works, having a raking fire with canister and spherical case. Our support not coming up, we were obliged to retire. It was a very stubborn fight; officers and men were killed, wounded, and taken prisoners. It was known as ‘ Poplar Grove fight.’ “— Ed.]

Oct. 1st. Took the cars at 1 P.M. for the left, a terrible storm was raging; layed in a mass all the afternoon.

Sept. 29th. Lay as support, all the time ready to re-enforce any part of the line. Butler took 3000 prisoners and 15 guns.